The Setting Spray Slip-Up

Setting spray is supposed to be the insurance policy — the final mist that locks it all in. But like anything in makeup, too much of a good thing can turn into a disaster really quick.

This client was heading to an outdoor event in the middle of summer. Hot, humid,
makeup-melting weather. We did a flawless beat: long wear foundation, powder set,
waterproof liner, the works. Everything was looking perfect. Then came the setting spray.

I gave a good mist, but right as I finished, the client leaned forward and grabbed the bottle. ‘I
always drench myself in this,’ she said, and before I could stop her, she sprayed half the bottle
across her face. Drops everywhere — big, wet splotches landing on mascara, foundation, and
shadow.

Instantly, the mascara bled. Little rivers of black streaked under her eyes. The foundation
spotted, leaving patches that looked like raindrops. And her shadow? Let’s just say shimmer
wasn’t meant to melt like that.

She looked in the mirror, horrified. ‘Why does it look like that?!’ I wanted to say, ‘Because you
basically showered in it,’ but instead, I grabbed tissues, blotted gently, and re-powdered
everything I could save. It wasn’t perfect, but at least she could walk out the door without
raccoon eyes.

Lesson learned: more spray doesn’t mean more staying power. Sometimes, less really is
more — especially when it comes to mist.